Choosing How to Build Your Website

by | Nov 23, 2024 | Websites

When you’re starting out building your website, it probably feels pretty overwhelming. Understandably so. There are lots of options and different routes to take.

Owning your domain name is different than hosting your website. Some platforms include a free domain for the first year with paid plans, with renewals typically running at a fee. This can be an issue if you later choose to move your website off the platform. We like to recommend buying your domain separately. Referring NameCheap for the lowest prices, or Cloudflare for the best security — depending on your needs.

Choosing a platform will require you to consider your specific needs — budget, level of control and customization, and scalability you desire for your website’s design and functionality. Using a Content Management System, like WordPress.org, offers extensive customization but requires more technical knowledge, while platforms like Wix and Squarespace provide user-friendly interfaces with varying degrees of flexibility. Platforms like Shopify may charge transaction fees unless you use their payment gateway.

Here’s a comparison of some popular website builders and content management systems (CMS), including their pricing structures and key features:

1. Wix

  • Pricing:
    • Free Plan: Includes Wix branding and a Wix subdomain.
    • Paid Plans: Start at $17 per month for the Combo plan, which removes Wix ads and allows a custom domain. Website Builder Expert
  • Features: Offers a drag-and-drop editor, over 900 templates, and an extensive app market for added functionality.

2. Squarespace

  • Pricing:
    • Personal Plan: $16 per month.
    • Business Plan: $23 per month.
    • Commerce Basic: $28 per month.
    • Commerce Advanced: $52 per month. Website Builder Expert
  • Features: Known for professionally designed templates, robust blogging tools, and integrated e-commerce capabilities.

3. Shopify

  • Pricing:
    • Basic Shopify: $29 per month.
    • Shopify: $79 per month.
    • Advanced Shopify: $299 per month. Tom’s Guide
  • Features: Specializes in e-commerce, offering comprehensive tools for online stores, including payment processing and inventory management.

4. Google Sites

  • Pricing: Free to use with a Google account.
  • Features: Provides basic website creation tools suitable for simple sites, with limited customization options.

5. Weebly

  • Pricing:
    • Free Plan: Includes Weebly branding and a Weebly subdomain.
    • Paid Plans: Start at $10 per month for the Personal plan. Website Planet
  • Features: Offers an intuitive drag-and-drop editor, various templates, and e-commerce capabilities through Square integration.

6. WordPress.org

  • Pricing:
    • Software: Free to download and use.
    • Hosting: Costs vary; for example, Bluehost offers plans starting at $1.99 per month. WPBeginner
  • Features: Highly customizable with thousands of themes and plugins; suitable for blogs, business sites, and e-commerce.

7. GoDaddy Website Builder

  • Pricing:
    • Basic Plan: $9.99 per month.
    • Premium Plan: $14.99 per month.
    • Commerce Plan: $16.99 per month. Tom’s Guide
  • Features: User-friendly builder with AI-driven design assistance, marketing tools, and e-commerce options.

8. Hostinger Website Builder

  • Pricing:
    • Starter Plan: $2.49 per month (for the first 12 months). TechRadar
  • Features: Affordable plans with AI tools, a drag-and-drop editor, and e-commerce capabilities.

9. Web.com

  • Pricing:
    • Starter Plan: $1.95 per month for the first month, then $10 per month. WPBeginner
  • Features: Provides a simple website builder with basic templates and e-commerce options.

10. IONOS Website Builder

  • Pricing:
    • Starter Plan: $5 per month.
    • Plus Plan: $1 per month for the first 12 months, then $15 per month. Tom’s Guide
  • Features: Offers industry-specific templates, a drag-and-drop editor, and marketing tools.

If you choose to work with us on your website, we typically go the WordPress.org route, as we can hand it over without a monthly bill attached.

If you choose to try it yourself, be sure to keep in mind the importance of security and compliance. Most of the platforms listed offer help and education on this.

Whichever method you choose, good luck and happy building!